By the end of this article, you’ll know how to apply for every type of Oman visa—what fees you’ll pay, how long you can stay, and even what happens if you miss your departure date. Let’s dive in.
Oman’s eVisa System
Oman introduced its electronic visa (eVisa) portal in August 2018, replacing paper and visa-on-arrival stamps across the country, as reported by Gulf News. You can apply from anywhere, track your application, and even receive approval in as little as 48 hours, according to a report by Zawya.
Types of Tourist Visas
Tourist visas are priced according to duration and entries, ranging from OMR 5 for a 30-day single entry to OMR 20 for a 90-day multiple entry.
– Single-entry (30 days)
– Multiple-entry (90 days)
How to Apply Online
- Visit the official eVisa portal.
- Complete the form and upload a passport scan.
- Pay with credit/debit card.
- Receive your eVisa PDF by email.
Processing typically takes between two and five business days, according to Lonely Planet’s Oman visa guide.
Visa Extension Policies
If you fall in love with Oman’s wadis and deserts and need more time, you can extend your tourist visa once.
- Extension period: up to the original visa’s length
- Fee: OMR 10 per 30 days
Step-by-Step Extension Process
- Log in to the eVisa portal.
- Select “Extend Visa.”
- Upload a photo and proof of onward travel.
- Pay the extension fee.
Expect approval within three days.
Transit Visa Options
Passing through Muscat on your way to another Gulf destination? Oman offers a free 48-hour transit visa for arrivals with a confirmed connecting flight.
- Eligibility: any nationality with onward ticket
- Validity: 48 hours, non-extendable
You apply online before departure, just like a tourist visa.
Special Visa Categories
Group Tourist Visas
Traveling in a group of four or more? Oman allows a single group application, cutting paperwork.
Cruise Ship Passenger Visas
If you dock in Muscat or Salalah as part of a cruise, you can obtain a complimentary visa valid for your port stay (up to 24 hours) through your cruise line.
Event-Specific Visas
For festivals like the Muscat Festival or Oman Desert Marathon, organizers can secure special-purpose entry permits. Contact the event’s travel desk for details.
Navigating Overstaying Penalties
Missing your departure date can get expensive fast. Here’s what you face if you overstay:
- OMR 10 per day, up to OMR 100 (Times of Oman)
- Temporary travel ban for chronic overstayers
- Possible deportation proceedings
If you realize you’ll overstay, arrange an extension before your visa expires to avoid fines.
From Visa-on-Arrival to eVisa: A Shift
Until 2019, Oman granted visas on arrival to around 60 nationalities. Rising visitor numbers drove the shift to a fully digital system, reducing airport queues and giving authorities better oversight, as noted by TravelPulse.
Regional Travel Agreements
- GCC Nationals: Enter Oman with a national ID—no visa required, per the U.S. Department of State.
- GCC Residents: Holders of GCC residence permits can get a single-entry visa on arrival valid for 30 days at OMR 5; see Experience Oman for details.
Unique Entry Requirements
Depending on your nationality, you may need:
– Proof of health/travel insurance covering Oman
– Confirmation of hotel booking or host address
– Evidence of at least OMR 100 in a bank account
Check the eVisa portal’s “Additional Documents” section before applying.
Tourism Initiatives & Vision 2040
Oman’s shift to eVisas ties directly to Vision 2040, which aims to raise tourism’s contribution to GDP from 2.3% to 8% by 2040, according to the Ministry of Economy’s Vision 2040 document. The nation welcomed 4.81 million visitors in 2022, up 118% from 2019’s 2.21 million (Trading Economics).
“Streamlined entry procedures are crucial for attracting new markets and enhancing visitor experience.” – Oman Ministry of Tourism
With continued policy refinements, Oman expects to top 6 million annual tourists by 2025.
Time to Pack Your Bags
Now that you know every visa option—from quick transit stays to special-event passes—you’re ready to plan your Omani adventure. Whether you’re chasing empty beaches, climbing Jebel Shams, or wandering Muscat’s old souks, securing the right visa is your first step toward an unforgettable trip.